Prague Castle Entrances | A Detailed Guide on How to Access the Attraction
Prague Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers visitors a remarkable journey through centuries of history. It has several entrances for visitors, with each entry providing a unique experience and a different perspective of the castle.
Let's take a deep dive into the different entrances and discover which one suits your preferences and interests!
Where is Prague Castle?
- Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
Find on Map - Location: Located atop a hill in the Hradčany district of Prague, Prague Castle is an emblem of the city's rich heritage. Its commanding position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city's red rooftops, the meandering Vltava River, and the distant horizon.
- Closest Landmark: Šternberský Palace (600 m)
Entrance Location and Getting There
I Courtyard or the Gate of Giants Entrance
This is the main entrance to the castle and a perfect choice for those seeking an entrance with a dramatic flair. As you approach this entrance, you'll be greeted by colossal statues of two giants guarding the gateway.
Who is it For? This entrance is convenient for visitors traveling via a tram or those staying in the Lesser Town area.
How to Reach: Take tram No. 22 to Pohořelec and make your way down the hill, or alight at Malostranské náměstí and take the New Castle Stairs. Both routes will take you to Hradčany Square, with the I Courtyard entrance nearby.
Timings: The I Courtyard entrance follows the same opening and closing timings as Prague Castle (6 AM to 10 PM).
Average Wait Time: The wait time can vary depending on the visitor flow. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Yes
II Courtyard Entrance
The II Courtyard entrance, located on the northern side of the castle, provides direct access to some of the main attractions within the castle complex, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace.
Who is it For? This entrance is suitable for visitors looking for the easiest way to enter the castle.
How to Reach: Hop on tram No. 22 and alight at Pražský hrad stop. From there, take a left turn, and within a leisurely 5-minute stroll, you'll find yourself in the 2nd Courtyard of Prague Castle.
Timings: The Prague Castle is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM. The II Courtyard entrance follows the same timings.
Average Wait Time: The wait time at this entrance can vary depending on the visitor flow. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Yes
Na Opyši Gate
This entrance provides the shortest route to Prague Castle from Malostranska station. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll in the picturesque South Gardens of the castle.
Who is it For? This entrance is suitable for visitors who prefer a shorter route to Prague Castle and are comfortable climbing stairs.
How to Reach: Take metro line A (green) to the Malostranská station, and then follow tram No. 22. After approximately 100 meters, turn left onto the Old Castle Stairs and climb the steps to reach the gate.
Timings: The Na Opyši Gate entrance follows the same opening hours as Prague Castle (6 AM to 10 PM).
Average Wait Time: The wait time at this entrance can vary depending on the number of visitors. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Not suitable for individuals with mobility issues (involves climbing stairs).
Royal Summer Palace Entrance
This entrance provides access to Prague Castle through the beautiful Royal Garden. Marvel at the Royal Summer Palace as you walk through the picturesque surroundings.
Who is it For? This entrance is suitable for tourists visiting Prague Castle during the summer season who wish to enjoy a scenic walk through the Royal Garden.
How to Reach: Take tram No. 22 and alight at the Královský letohrádek stop. Enter the garden and walk for 15-20 minutes to reach Prague Castle Riding School, which serves as an entrance during the summer season.
Timings: The Royal Summer Palace entrance is only open during summer. The opening and closing hours may vary, so it is recommended to check the official Prague Castle website for updated information.
Average Wait Time: The wait time at this entrance can vary depending on the number of visitors. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Yes.
Which is the Best Prague Castle Entrance?
The I Courtyard is the best Prague Castle entrance. It is the main entrance to Prague Castle and is suitable for a variety of tickets including:
- Skip the Line Tickets to Prague Castle with Optional Mobile Guide: The I Courtyard entrance is one of the most used entrances to Prague Castle, so it has the longest lines. Skip-the-line tickets are suitable for this entrance to bypass those long queues.
- Prague Castle + 1hr Panoramic Cruise Tickets: Enter the castle through the I Courtyard entrance and take an exit from the Na Opyši Gate. This gate is located near the Vltava River, making it convenient for combining the Prague Castle visit with a 1-hour panoramic cruise.
- Prague Castle + Astronomical Clock Tower Tickets: The Na Opyši Gate is located near the Malostranská station. You can easily reach the Astronomical Clock Tower via Malostranská station by entering the castle through I Courtyard and exiting from the Na Opyši Gate.
- Skip-the-Line Ticket to Prague Castle with Transfers: The I Courtyard entrance is the main entrance to Prague Castle, and skip-the-line tickets with transfers are well-suited for this entrance to ensure a hassle-free visit with convenient transportation arrangements.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Prague Castle Entrances
There are four entrances at Prague Castle: I Courtyard, II Courtyard, Na Opyši Gate, and Royal Summer Palace Entrance.
If you have already purchased Prague Castle tickets, you can use any one of the four entrances.
The wait time at the Prague Castle entrance can vary depending on the visitor flow, season, and time of day.
Skip the line ticket holders can use the I Courtyard entrance, which allows them to bypass the regular ticket queue and enter the castle directly.
The II Courtyard entrance is well-suited for visitors who prefer to explore the castle with a knowledgeable guide.
Visitors with disabilities should use the I Courtyard or II Courtyard entrances.
If you don't have tickets, you can purchase them at any of the entrances.
To avoid long wait times, you can purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance or visit the castle during less busy hours, such as early morning or late afternoon.